Where to Stay in Yellowstone National Park: Top Accommodations for Every Budget

Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the United States, holds a special place in history. Designated in 1872 during Ulysses S. Grant’s presidency, it was created to protect its stunning landscapes, deep canyons, magnificent waterfalls, and geysers. Before then, early reports of these natural wonders were often dismissed as tall tales.

The real popularity of Yellowstone began after the Cook–Folsom–Peterson Expedition in 1869. This changed perceptions, and people began to marvel at the park’s geysers, bright-colored lakes, and petrified trees. Today, you can explore this breathtaking region and see for yourself why so many find it extraordinary.

Key Takeaways

• Explore Yellowstone’s historic and natural significance.
• Choose from various lodging options in and around the park.
• Discover the best times and ways to visit this iconic destination.

Places to Stay Inside the Park

Choosing to stay within Yellowstone National Park offers an unforgettable experience, with several accommodations to suit different tastes. Whether it’s soaking up the history at Old Faithful Inn or enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins, the park has something unique for everyone.

• Old Faithful Inn – This iconic hotel dates back to 1903. Made from logs and stones, it boasts a rich history and provides a warm, rustic feel.
• Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins – With its log cabin vibe, this lodge mirrors the natural beauty of Yellowstone. It’s a laid-back option for those looking to stay close to Old Faithful geyser.
• Roosevelt Lodge Cabins – Located near an area once used by President Theodore Roosevelt, these cabins offer stunning mountain views and a cozy ambiance.

By staying inside the park, you can wake up and immediately start exploring the amazing landscapes, geysers, and canyons without long drives. Plus, you’re more likely to spot wildlife like bison and elk.

Montana

Though not technically inside the park, nearby Montana offers some delightful options that can provide a different flavor of the Yellowstone experience. Montana accommodations range from charming cabins to comfortable hotels that serve as good bases for exploring the park.

• Rustic Cabins – These often come with beautiful views and a peaceful setting. Many cabins are equipped with modern amenities but still retain a quaint charm.
• Hotels – In Montana, you can find a range of hotels that are perfect for those who prefer all the comforts. Many of them provide easy access to Yellowstone’s north entrance.

Each location promises unique experiences, whether it’s hiking through meadows, fishing in streams, or simply enjoying the serenity. Being so close to Yellowstone, it’s easy to hop back into the park for more adventures, like watching bears in Lamar Valley or soaking up the views of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. It’s a balance of rustic and modern living, always surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Gardiner

Staying in Gardiner

Situated at the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, Gardiner, Montana, is perfect for resting and exploring the amazing park. This small town, established in 1872, is the original gateway to Yellowstone. It offers visitors a variety of places to stay, from cozy motels to luxurious lodges and hotels.

If you enjoy fishing, Gardiner is a dream come true. Parks’ Fly Shop, one of the oldest in the Yellowstone area, has been open since 1953 and is a must-visit for fly fishing enthusiasts.

Getting into Yellowstone is very straightforward from Gardiner. The North Entrance Road takes you right through the spectacular Mammoth Hot Springs and onward to other park attractions. While in town, the Yellowstone National Park Heritage and Research Center is worth visiting to learn about the area’s history.

Best Accommodations

Travelodge Gardiner is a convenient option, located just a mile from Yellowstone’s North Entrance. Rooms often include kitchens, which can be handy for families. A buffet breakfast starts your day right, and they have laundry facilities onsite.

Yellowstone Gateway Inn offers a more private experience with its charming cabins. With one or two-bedroom options, these cabins come with kitchens, small lounges, and outdoor seating areas to enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Both choices provide comfort and convenience for your Yellowstone adventures. Whether you’re planning a full-on exploration of the park or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Gardiner has a spot for you.

Cooke City-Silver Gate

Where to Stay in Cooke City-Silver Gate

When heading to Cooke City-Silver Gate, you’ll find a range of accommodations that cater to different tastes. One option to consider is the Soda Butte Lodge. Tucked at the base of the mountains, this charming, rustic lodge is a mere four miles from Yellowstone’s North Entrance. Here, you can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant or a drink at the bar. The outdoor shared porch is also a great spot to soak in the views.

Remember, lodging in this area is limited, so it’s wise to book early, especially during the peak seasons. The available options might seem a bit pricier compared to similar accommodations elsewhere, but the unique experience and proximity to the park are worth it.

For those who prefer a more rugged experience, there are a few campgrounds just outside the town. This is a great choice if you enjoy being close to nature. Plus, staying in Cooke City-Silver Gate allows easy access to winter activities like skiing and snowboarding in the nearby Beartooth or Absaroka Mountains.

Whether you’re planning a winter adventure or a summer getaway, Cooke City-Silver Gate offers a cozy base with phenomenal access to Yellowstone’s splendor.

West Yellowstone

Where to Stay in West Yellowstone

West Yellowstone, located right at the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, is a fantastic spot for families and adventure seekers. The town is pretty unique, with signs in Mandarin and even six Chinese restaurants, along with plenty of Western food choices – yes, there’s a McDonald’s too!

Accommodation options here are varied. You can find budget-friendly hotels, cozy cabins, and even some upscale choices, but generally, nothing too pricey.

• Stage Coach Inn is a great pick if you’re looking for a blend of comfort and tradition. It has a restaurant that serves hearty meals and drinks, plus breakfast is offered every morning. You can even take a dip in their swimming pool.

If you’re traveling with pets, many lodgings here welcome them, making it easier for you to enjoy your vacation without worrying about your furry friends.

For those interested in vacation rentals, platforms like Airbnb provide a range of options from cozy condos to entire homes, catering to families needing a bit more space.

And don’t forget about the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, perfect for animal lovers and kids. There’s also the Yellowstone Historic Center in a former train depot, offering rich local history.

Livingston

Livingston, although a bit of a drive from Yellowstone, serves as a fantastic base for your adventures. It’s situated north of Yellowstone’s northern entry point, Gardiner, and accessible via Route 89. This connection makes it a convenient choice for those looking for affordable and varied lodging options.

While many budget-friendly hotels line the roads leading into town, you’ll also find some more mid-range accommodations nestled within the heart of Livingston.

In addition to being a gateway to Yellowstone, Livingston offers a host of local activities. You can immerse yourself in the history of the area at the Yellowstone Gateway Museum or visit the restored 1902 railway depot, now known as the Livingston Depot Center. This depot doubles as a museum and comes alive with arts events during the Fourth of July weekend.

Where to Stay in Livingston

• Budget Options

  • Econo Lodge Livingston: This large hotel boasts spacious rooms and provides excellent value for visitors heading to the Yellowstone area.

Livingston’s blend of affordability, local charm, and proximity to Yellowstone makes it an appealing choice for travelers. Whether you’re drawn by the history or the convenience, there’s something here for everyone.

Bozeman

Lodging Options

Finding a place to stay in Bozeman is straightforward with a variety of choices available. Whether you prefer a luxurious bed and breakfast with antique decor, a modern mid-range hotel, or a budget-friendly option, Bozeman has something for you. One family-friendly choice is MountainView Lodge and Suites, a 3-star hotel featuring spacious rooms and an indoor pool perfect for kids.

Wyoming

Even though Bozeman is in Montana, its proximity to Yellowstone National Park, which spans Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana, makes it a great starting point for your adventure. Bozeman is just a short drive from the park’s north and west entrances, providing easy access to Wyoming’s portion of Yellowstone. Here, you can experience the geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife that make the park famous.

Jackson Hole

Where to Sleep in Jackson Hole

• Rustic Inn Creekside – This resort sits on ten acres of beautiful private grounds. It’s close to the National Elk Refuge and has private lodges with firepits and lounges. It’s perfect if you want a blend of comfort and nature.

• Teton Mountain Lodge – There’s a lot happening here. The ski resort features a massive hot tub on the roof, other pools, and tubs. Plus, it has a spa and a gym. If you love skiing and relaxation, this place has it all.

• The Lexington at Jackson Hole – Some rooms come with kitchenettes, and others have outdoor seating areas. There’s also a cozy shared lounge with a stone fireplace. For breakfast, they offer a hot meal, which is great before a day of adventure.

  
  

Cody

Places to Stay in Cody

Cody serves as a welcoming eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Not just a pitstop, Cody offers a rich history and comfortable accommodations. It’s home to the Buffalo Bill Center of The West and the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum, each capturing the essence of the ‘Wild West. Whether you’re up for a visit to Old Trail Town or exploring Buffalo Bill Reservoir, you’ll find plenty to do here.

When it comes to places to stay, Cody has a variety of options:

• Cody Cowboy Village: Less than a ten-minute walk from Old Trail Town, this spot has cozy cabins perfect for that authentic cowboy experience.

• Budget Hotels: If you’re watching your wallet, Cody offers some budget-friendly hotels nestled in historic buildings. They bring a unique charm while keeping your travels affordable.

  
  

For those wanting more modern mid-range options, Cody has plenty of modern hotels to choose from. And as you head closer to the entrance of Yellowstone, you’ll notice some higher-end accommodations. This scenic route takes you past Cedar Mountain and offers stunning views, making your stay in Cody an experience to remember.

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